Daily Dupaco

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Love don't need to cost a thing

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, nothing seems to say “I love you” more than a dozen red roses, a box of chocolates and a romantic night out. According to the National Retail Foundation (NRF), “Total spending is expected to reach $19.7 billion, a survey high.”

But there’s an old adage that says, “Money can’t buy love.”

Contrary to popular belief, Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be the holiday that we need to plan on spending the 2016 American average of $146.84 that the NRF is predicting. Dupaco has been a long-time promoter of thrift, and I can certainly agree that saving some green during this day of love can make it more intimate.

Spending less on Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean that you don’t love that special person in your life. Instead it can be a great opportunity to grow a little fonder of each other. Here are some tips to pinching pennies—but not love—on February 14:

Make your own card or gift – Pinterest offers many Valentine’s Day DIY card and gift ideas that will strike close to the heart…after all, it’s the thought that counts, right?

Keep that candle-lit dinner at home – Even if you or your partner aren’t the world’s best cooks, it’s often more fun to cook together and even try a new recipe that you have been considering. If you still want to enjoy a meal out, opt for doing so the day before or after Valentine’s Day or check out Groupon for some great deals near or far.

Netflix and chill – Movie tickets often cost $9 each and upwards, with snacks packing an additional punch. Instead, you can pop a bowl of popcorn for less than a dollar per bag, and snuggle up to that warm, crackling fireplace while you watch your favorite movies. If you want to see something new, most drug and/or grocery stores have a Redbox from which you can rent a movie for less than the price of a theater ticket.

Skip the roses – This clichéd flower sees a spike in price every year. Get more bang for your buck by opting for a bouquet of your loved one’s favorite flower, or shop around for some deals at your local florist a few days in advance. In addition, skip the delivery. According to a CBS News article, “Many florists charge higher delivery fees on Feb. 14 and some orders don't even get to their recipients in time due to overloaded delivery schedules.”

Save the chocolate until tomorrow – In addition to flowers, food costs spike during the days leading up to the holiday. Most grocery stores discount holiday candy and chocolate the day afterwards, allowing you to keep some money in your pockets.

Will you aim to save some green over Valentine’s Day this year, or stick to the traditional flowers, chocolate and a fancy restaurant?